| SEPTEMBER 18, 2009 -- Grange halls are always buzzing with activity. Whether it is fundraisers for charities or special events for the community, the Grange has become a staple of Americana.
That piece of Americana shone bright despite the lack of sun on Saturday, Sept. 12, as the Killingly Grange #112 held its annual fair and craft show. The event included crafters, exhibits, food, games, a bake sale table and prizes.
Vendors of various goods offered their creations for sale, while contestants brought in everything from floral arrangements to collections to be judged and awarded. Denise Aubin, president of the Killingly Grange Fair, also set up a table with some of her hand-made items. "It has been a bad year for everyone, but to not have the fair is out of the question ," Aubin said.
Prizes were awarded for Best of Show in three divisions: floral, pen and ink (adults only), and children's photography . The adult's theme is based on something adults would not necessarily do in the course of their daily routine. This year, the pen and ink was chosen as the theme. Josie Stenback won best in floral, and Tiffany Aubin took the honors for the adult pen and ink division. The children's division winner was not present to be congratulated.
Prizes were also awarded for vegetables , baking, and hobbies and collectibles . Although gardens were not up to par this year with the uncooperative weather, the entries were impressive none-the-less . The hobbies and collections included everything from pins to teacups. "People always have a collection of something they like to show off, so we let them bring it here," Aubin said.
Grange Master Elenor Davis was on hand to greet guests as they meandered down the aisles inspecting the entries and checking out the various crafts. "I think it [the fair] is great. We do a lot here. There is even a square dance tonight , right after the fair," Davis said.
Among the crafters were Russell and Dot Downer, of Pomfret Center, who were first-timers at the fair. "We love it. This is our first one," Dot said.
Misty Highland Farm, of Dayville, a perennial at the event, had goat's milk products for sale, while Candles Delightfully of Webster, Mass., looked like a buffet table with candles meticulously resembling pies, cookies and other treats. Crit's Creations of North Grosvenordale offered a stunning array of hand-made glass jewelry. Theresa Anderson of Go Green Bags stayed busy crocheting her creation: handbags, water bottles and change purses made from recycled plastic bags. "I just thought of it one day and began making them," Anderson said. The product is very durable and, of course, eco-friendly .
Bill Kilcup of Wakefield enjoyed the event despite the drizzling rain. "I enjoy Grange events. I would rather go to a small local place than a large chain event," Kilcup said.
Cary Langley was impressed with the homemade jewelry and Go Green Bags. "I love all the hand-made crafts and supporting these local businesses. It's great," Langley said.
The Killingly Grange #112 puts on events throughout the year, including a square dance every second Saturday of each month from September to June. For more information on upcoming events, call (860) 774-8928 .
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